The Finance Minister has responded to allegations made against him, stating that his legal team has officially informed the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) that the claims are “without merit.” Deputy Prime Minister Biman Prasad made these remarks during an event at the Grand Pacific Hotel, emphasizing that the accusations do not provide sufficient grounds for any charges.
His statement comes after FICAC Commissioner Barbara Malimali indicated that a decision regarding his case would be reached solely by the newly appointed commissioner. Initially, Mr. Prasad was expected to face charges for allegedly failing to declare all assets, income, and liabilities prior to the last election.
Francis Pulewai, the former Acting Deputy Commissioner of FICAC who had been overseeing the investigation, expressed his disappointment over the situation, deeming it “sad.” The inquiry into Mr. Prasad’s actions was reportedly wrapped up while Ms. Pulewai was in charge, and he was anticipated to be charged.
However, with Ms. Pulewai’s resignation and Ms. Malimali stepping into the role of FICAC Chief, proceedings regarding the case are currently stalled. Meanwhile, Justice Minister Siromi Turaga, also under a FICAC complaint, condemned the accusations as “malicious.”
Former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry and Savenaca Narube, leader of the Unity Fiji Party, have criticized Ms. Malimali’s appointment and are urging FICAC to move forward with charges against Mr. Prasad. In response to their comments, Mr. Prasad stated, “I don’t need to respond to the likes of Chaudhry and Narube,” reiterating that his lawyers have made it clear to FICAC that there are no grounds for any charges. This statement marks Mr. Prasad’s first public response to criticism regarding his FICAC case, although he chose not to comment further.